Method of laminating a document in a plastic film

Abstract

A device embodying the invention comprises a pair of members presenting a lower base surface and a member presenting an upper parallel surface when in an operative position. A platen pad material, which converts microwave energy to heat, is provided on one of the surfaces. When in an operative position the two platens provide uniform pressure over the surfaces of a laminating pouch carrying a document. The device is placed in a domestic microwave oven and the oven is operated for a period of time dependent on the rated power of the oven, the size of the document and the energy conversion capability of the platen pad. The platen pad converts the microwave energy to heat energy while applying uniform pressure over the surfaces of the pouch. This produces liquefaction of the adhesive which bonds the film to the document. The device is then removed from the microwave oven, permitted to cool, the lamination removed, and trimmed as may be necessary.

What is claimed is:  
     
       1. A method of laminating a document in a plastic film comprising the steps of providing a device having first and second electrically nonconductive members with planar surfaces with one of said surfaces having a platen thereon which is comprised of a pad of material which converts microwave energy to heat energy and the other of said surfaces has an elastomeric pad thereon, using a laminating pouch comprising a plastic film having a heat activated adhesive coating thereon, placing a document in said pouch, placing said pouch with said document therein between said first and second members, clamping said members so as to exert pressure on said pouch and document, placing said clamped members in a microwave oven and operating said oven for a period of time to have said platen heat to a temperature sufficient to fuse the adhesive resin of the laminating pouch to the document. 
     
     
       2. The method of  claim 1  including the further step of removing the said non-conductive members from the oven, allowing a time for said platen pad to cool, removing the laminated material and trimming the material of the laminating pouch. 
     
     
       3. The method of  claim 1  wherein the platen pad is selected to be of a hardness which will compress said elastomeric pad when said first and second members are clamped. 
     
     
       4. The method of  claim 3  wherein said platen pad will cause said elastomeric pad to bottom when said elastomeric pad is compressed.